Croton
1960s Croton Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver (Ref. 105) Valjoux Cal. 92
The Chronomaster range of watches from Nivada Grenchen and Croton were produced when adventures and exploration were at the forefront of what was happening in the world and within the pop culture of the 1960s. Within the expansive world of vintage timepieces, there is no uncertainty that vintage tool watches hold a particular position in the minds of numerous collectors. The 1960s and 1970s were what we now know as the golden era of sports watch design where the form of a watch needed to meet its intended function to support the adventures that the watch was created for. Nivada Grenchen or Croton in the States was founded in Grenchen, Switzerland in the 1920s by Jacob Schneider, Nivada Grenchen was actually one of the first watch brands to manufacture automatic watches. Nevada also encompassed other modern wristwatch innovations, creating waterproof and “rustless” watches that would stand up to the rigors of the outdoor adventures they were creating a watch for.
SPECS
| Stock # | CTNCASD105 | |
| Brand | Croton | |
| Style | Aviator Sea Diver | |
| Model | 105 / 9855 | |
| Serial | 66XXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black | |
| Millimeters | 38 | |
| Bracelet | 2pc Handmade Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent condition case featuring angular lugs appears to have been gently polished in the past and retains strong geometry throughout with light signs of honest use present. The original bi-directional bezel exhibits minimal signs of use and remains deep black in coloration. The case retains its original pump pushers and unsigned crown. The case back features honest wear and tool marks with all of its original factory markings remaining in excellent condition, the case back also features a hand engraving of the initials "JAM" on the outside and inside of the case back. The watch will come supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The matte black dial is in overall exceptional vintage condition, exhibiting only subtle age, namely some darkening to the dial around the hand stack but no notable damage. The tritium lume plots have achieved an even dark tan patina throughout, under U.V. light inspection none of the lume plots exhibit degradation but the 4 and 5 o'clock markers feature an odd texture from factory. The original "broad arrow" hands have been professionally restored with tritium to match the dial.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.